When it comes to any form of construction within the home, like an elevator installation, your family’s well-being and safety should be your priority. This is why planning is crucial with the help of professionals, like a trusted and reputable elevator installer.
Before you even decide to start the construction of a home elevator, you have to ask the important questions below. By doing so, you’ll come up with the right decision.
What Type of Elevator Is Suitable For My Home?
With so many types of elevators available, the last thing you’d want to happen is to organize the elevator installation, only to find out later on that it needs to be rearranged to factor in another type of lift. This is why you should talk to a trusted and reputable elevator installer to determine the type of elevator that will work best for your home.
Here are some considerations when choosing the best type of elevator for your home:
- Space: Elevators come in different sizes. A residential elevator that is needed to fit a wheelchair will considerably need a larger space than a lift that is only used when standing. Make sure that you’re able to determine the space available so you can choose the most suitable lift.
- Amount of Traffic: This refers to the number of people who will use your in home elevator regularly.
- Weight: It includes the weight of equipment or people it can carry, which determines load capacity.
- Accessibility: The purpose of using the elevator, such as to move a person bound in a wheelchair or family members with mobility issues.
- Drive System: The main types of the elevator drive system include hydraulic, chain drive counterweight, and cable winding drum. Each type has varying benefits. It depends on where you live, the space available, and how much electricity you’re willing to consume. Talk to a representative by visiting the website of professional elevator installers such as www.nwliftsnorcal.com to find out more about your options when it comes to installing a residential elevator.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Home Elevator?
While it’s hard to budget nowadays, adding an elevator to your home provides convenient access for family members who are elderly, sick, and wheelchair-bound. This makes it a great investment that also adds value to your property.
The elevator company should be able to give you a rough estimate of how much installing a home elevator will cost you. Most of the time, the price differs depending on the type of lift needed. The other related costs, aside from purchasing an elevator, include the installation and maintenance costs. Ask for a written estimate and make sure that all verbal agreements are indicated on the contract once you’ve decided to hire the contractor.
Here are the things that should be clearly outlined in the contract:
- Type of Elevator: Including the type of drive or mechanism
- Size and other Relevant Dimensions: Size of the elevator shaft and the elevator car
- Price of the Elevator: Including a detailed outline of the parts required
- Installation Cost: Including the number of days and the number of workers who will do the job
- Service Guarantee and Warranties: Specifying the schedule of maintenance checks and who will do the job
Do You Perform Customization?
Customization includes the style and appearance of the elevator. Also, it includes any special requirements based on your personal preferences, like having seniors around, and the type of house or building you have. Understanding your needs is important. In that way, you can clearly define what style or adjustments you want.
Do You Have Elevators That Don’t Use Proprietary Parts?
Proprietary parts are made for only one brand of elevator, which is sold to the manufacturer’s partner company. If something goes wrong, you’ll have to look for proprietary components through a dealer carrying that specific brand. However, the difficult part is you’ll never know how long the brand or dealer will remain in business.
It is best to use non-proprietary systems so any maintenance provider can service your elevator. Also, you’ll save time, money, and effort searching for a dealer. Look for residential or commercial elevators with non-proprietary parts. By doing so, you also reduce the costs associated with maintenance.
Who Will Install the Elevator?
Deal with a trusted and reputable manufacturer who can provide installation. Choose a company with a proven excellent track record as this will ensure the safe operation of the elevator. Review the company through the Better Business Bureau or BBB, review sites like Angie’s List, and social media for any complaints. It’s best to choose one who is knowledgeable about elevator upgrades and trends.
Conclusion
Asking the questions above will help you choose the right elevator manufacturer and installer. You’ll have peace of mind if you know what features to look for in a home or commercial elevator, the specific requirements needed, and options available. A good elevator company will not hesitate to provide everything you’d want to know.
